Nova Poshta’s Private Air Defense Teams Destroy Over 60 Russian Drones by October 2026

Nova Poshta’s Private Air Defense Initiative

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: Nova Poshta has launched a private air defense project that actively combats Russian attack drones. In Ukraine, private air defense units have begun engaging enemy unmanned aerial vehicles, successfully neutralizing a significant number of threats. By October 14, 2026, approximately 50 such groups were established, having destroyed more than 60 airborne targets. This experimental effort has attracted participation from over 80 companies.

Vyacheslav Klymov, owner of Nova Group of Companies, stated: "We are among the few firms to implement this project. While I can’t disclose exact figures, we have successfully taken down Shaheds."

This involvement highlights Nova Poshta's proactive role in countering aggression, with company staff independently extinguishing numerous fires at operational sites caused by Russian attacks.

Expansion and Impact of the Program

As of July 13, 2026, Nova Poshta operated a network of 54,700 service points across Ukraine, including 16,800 branches and 37,900 parcel terminals. Ukrainian critical infrastructure enterprises are permitted to form their own air defense units equipped with temporary weaponry and trained personnel certification. The first private air defense group commenced combat operations in the Kharkiv region, successfully intercepting several Russian drones. Notably, on April 17, 2026, the first confirmed shooting down of a high-speed Shahed missile drone-traveling over 400 km/h-was recorded in Kharkiv.

Large companies have also been sourcing fire trucks from Europe to establish their own firefighting units. Vyacheslav Klymov emphasized: "Currently, major businesses are acquiring fire engines abroad to create their own services. This is our property-who can forbid me from putting out fires on my premises?"

By mid-September 2026, 81 companies had joined this private air defense experiment, with six enterprises actively deploying combat units. This growth reflects the rising importance of private sector involvement in Ukraine’s security and defense efforts.

The emergence of private air defense teams, such as Nova Poshta’s initiative, marks a significant shift in protecting the nation’s critical infrastructure amidst ongoing armed conflict. Increasing corporate participation underscores the vital role businesses play in reinforcing Ukraine’s defense capabilities, helping to mitigate damage from hostile attacks and enhancing overall security across the country.